Hybrid Cars Outsell Petrol Vehicles in the EU
For the first time hybrid cars have outsold petrol cars in the European Union. In September 2024 hybrid cars made up 32.8% of new car sales while petrol cars accounted for 29.8%. This is according to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association.
This rise in hybrid sales shows that more people are choosing greener transport options in the EU. Electrified vehicles including battery electric cars, plug in hybrids and hybrid electric cars made up 56.9% of new car sales. This is an increase from 50.3% last year.
Even with more interest in electric and hybrid cars the overall EU car market saw a 6.1% drop in sales compared to last year. Major markets like Germany, France and Italy showed little growth. This reflected economic challenges in the industry.
Sigrid de Vries Director General of ACEA said the growth in hybrid sales is a good step toward greener transport. However she noted that more needs to be done to strengthen the electric vehicle market for a sustainable future.
The increase in hybrid sales shows that consumers are choosing more eco friendly cars. With the EU focused on reducing carbon emissions the auto industry will likely keep investing in hybrid and electric vehicle technology.
